All About Kiss Engagement Rings: Meaning, History and Styles

All About Kiss Engagement Rings

An engagement ring is one of the most meaningful pieces of jewelry a person can own. It symbolizes love, commitment and the promise of a future together. For many couples, the act of proposing is sealed with a kiss - making kiss engagement rings a beautiful representation of this special moment.

Kiss engagement rings feature two stones that are cut to fit perfectly together, resembling two lips touching in a tender kiss. This design is romantic and symbolic, ideal for celebrating relationships. Keep reading to learn more about the history, meaning and popularity of kiss engagement rings.

The History of Kiss Engagement Rings

The concept of a "kissing stones" design is centuries old, with some of the earliest examples found in Irish claddagh rings from the 17th century. Claddagh rings featured two hands clasping a crowned heart, symbolizing friendship, loyalty and love.

Modern kiss engagement rings as we know them today became popular in the Edwardian era in the early 1900s. Advances in diamond cutting allowed artisans to precisely cut stones to fit together in new intricate ways. The Edwardians were inspired by sentimentality and romance, making the kiss design a trendy choice for couples of the time.

Through the Art Deco period of the 1920s, kiss engagement rings were fashioned in geometrical, symmetrical styles. Then in the 1950s, as high quality diamond became more accessible, kiss rings had a resurgence in popularity that continues to this day.

The Meaning Behind Kiss Engagement Rings

A kiss is universally recognized as an expression of deep love and affection. When translated into a ring, two stones designed to "kiss" carry the same associations.

Kiss engagement rings represent:

• Harmony - The two stones fit together perfectly, complementing each other.
• Partnership - They come together as two halves of a whole.
• Intimacy - The stones touch in a close embrace.
• Unity - Despite being separate stones, they create a single ring.
• Fidelity - Their bond is lasting and unbroken.
• Romance - A tender kiss encapsulates romantic sentiment.
• Commitment - A promise to love faithfully forever.

For many couples, kiss engagement rings elegantly summarize the depth of their relationship and the promise they make for the future when exchanging rings.

The Popularity of Kiss Engagement Rings

Kiss engagement rings have maintained steady popularity over the years. Here are some reasons they are adored by many brides-to-be:

• Sentimentality - They carry personal meaning about love and connection.
• Distinctiveness - The two stone design offers something different than a traditional single stone solitaire.
• Versatility - Kiss rings work with many settings, from simple to elaborate.
• Balance - The symmetry and proportions are visually appealing.
• Symbolism - They represent partnership and harmony.
• Artistry - Precision cutting allows the stones to fit flawlessly together.

Kiss engagement rings offer timeless beauty and meaning that appeals to modern couples looking for the perfect ring to commemorate their love.

Design Styles for Kiss Engagement Rings

While all kiss rings share the characteristic of two stones touching, there are many design possibilities to suit personal styles. Here are some popular options:

Classic Solitaire Kiss Ring

This elegant style features a larger center stone with a pave diamond "kissing band" alongside. The band is contoured to snuggle against the center stone in a subtle kiss. It's a fresh take on the classic solitaire.

Halo Kiss Ring

A halo ring has a center stone encircled by a ring of smaller stones. For a kiss design, the halo only extends halfway around, meeting the kissing band on the other side. This creates a showcase for the center stone.

Bypass Kiss Ring

Bypass rings have multiple bands that twist and intertwine for visual interest. A bypass kiss ring has two bands that eventually meet at the sides, forming the two kissing stones. This style makes a bold artistic statement.

Three Stone Kiss Ring

Three stone rings feature a center stone between two side stones. For a kiss ring, the side stones are cut at angles to lean in towards and kiss the middle stone. The three stone design represents past, present and future.

Pave Kiss Ring

For serious sparkle, small pave diamonds adorn the bands on either side of the kissing stones. The dazzling diamonds complement two eye-catching center stones.

Curved Band Kiss Ring

Subtle curves in the band leading to the kissing stones add flow and softness to the ring's silhouette. A curved band offers a graceful, feminine look.

Choosing Stones for Kiss Engagement Rings

Kiss engagement rings make a statement with their two beautifully fitted stones. Here are some top stone options for kiss designs:

Diamonds

Diamonds are the traditional engagement ring stone for their brilliance, fire and purity. Two perfectly matched diamonds say "forever" better than any other gem. Excellent cuts like round, princess, cushion and emerald work well.

Colored Gemstones

For those who prefer unique color, two colorful gems like sapphires, rubies or emeralds can create a custom kiss ring. Contrasting hues like blue and green sapphire or complementary tones like pink and yellow sapphire are eye-catching.

Birthstones

Incorporating the bride and groom's birthstones honors both individuals. Custom cutting allows the birthstones to fit together in a meaningful kiss. This is a thoughtful way to symbolize two lives joining.

Mixed Stones

Mixing different stones, like a sapphire kissing a diamond, combines the best features of each. This can match the bride's personality,like pairing a dazzling diamond with a bold ruby. Mismatched stones add character to kiss designs.

The options are endless for finding the perfect stones to represent each love story. An experienced jeweler can source stones and cut them to flawless precision for an engagement ring that's one-of-a-kind.

Unique Ring Settings for Kiss Engagement Rings

Creative settings allow jewelers to showcase kiss stones to their full advantage. Here are some dazzling setting styles to consider:

Split Shank Setting

This setting has the band split into two as it approaches the stones, emphasizing the separate kissing stones. Intricate metalwork finishes the split shank for detail.

Cluster Setting

Tiny stones surround the kissing pair in a cluster for mega sparkle. Baguettes, trillion cuts or rounds add brilliance and contrast to the central stones.

Invisible Setting

This seamless look uses prongs hidden beneath the crown of the stones. The result is an uninterrupted band of stones and metal in a sleek modern style.

Halo Setting

As described above, a partial halo in half-moon shape elegantly frames the sides and bottom of the central kiss. The halo provides extra shine.

Pave Setting

Micro pave diamonds blanket the band and sides of the stones for a shimmering, lush look. This much sparkle never goes out of style.

The ring setting you choose helps form the overall theme for your engagement ring. A jeweler can advise you on which settings best complement different kiss stones and styles.

Make It Meaningful with Engraving

Adding a custom engraved message inside the band makes kiss engagement rings even more romantic. Engraving allows you to emphasize the sentiment behind this special token of love.

Some popular engraving ideas include:

• Initials or names
• Wedding date
• Romantic phrase like "My love, my life"
• Special location like where you met or got engaged
• Meaningful quote or lyric

Choose an font style that suits your personal taste. Fancy script, block lettering or even your handwriting can be engraved for a personal touch.

Location also matters - engravings inside the band are private, while those outside can be shown off. An experienced jeweler will guide you on size limits and lettering details so your message is clear and meaningful.

Finding the Perfect Kiss Engagement Ring

Kiss engagement rings are brimming with symbolism and sentiment, making them a top choice to represent true love. With so many options for stones, settings and details, you're sure to find a style that speaks to you.

To start your search for the perfect kiss engagement ring:

• Browse designs online and in stores to decide what styles you're drawn to.
• Think about your significant other's personality and style preferences.
• Determine priorities like budget, quality and customization.
• Work with a reputable jeweler who can source stones, craft quality settings and cut stones to fit.
• Schedule consultations to view stones and settings in person.

The process of finding that meaningful kiss engagement ring is part of the exciting journey toward the engagement and marriage ahead. With an expert jeweler guiding you, you're sure to find the ring that perfectly symbolizes your love - sealed with a kiss.

FAQs

What is the meaning behind a kiss engagement ring?

The two stones designed to "kiss" symbolize harmony, partnership, intimacy, unity, fidelity, romance and lifelong commitment between two people.

What are the most popular styles of kiss engagement rings?

Classic solitaire, halo, three stone, bypass, and pave kiss rings are some top styles. Curved bands and split shanks also accentuate the two kissing stones.

What stones work best for kiss engagement rings?

Diamonds, colored gems like sapphires or rubies, birthstones, or mixed stones are all beautiful options. The stones should be precisely cut to fit flush together.

Should I have my kiss engagement ring engraved?

Engraving with initials, wedding dates or a meaningful quote is a romantic way to personalize the meaning. Inside engraving is private, outside is public.

How do I find the perfect kiss engagement ring?

Browse styles online and in stores, consider your budget and preferences, then work with an expert jeweler to select stones and design custom settings for your one-of-a-kind ring.